Donald's Return Status Uncertain
Aaron Donald expresses satisfaction with his return but remains quiet about season opener status.
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Aaron Donald, a three-time AP Defensive Player of the Year, says his comeback from two years away is going better than expected. The 35-year-old defensive tackle rejoined the Los Angeles Rams last month and has been pleased with his physical progress. But whether he'll play in the Rams' season opener against the San Francisco 49ers in Melbourne, Australia, remains unclear APNews.
Donald hasn't played an NFL game since January 2024. He took a scheduled day off from practice on September 7 but told reporters he's handling the ramp-up carefully. "We're going day by day," Donald said WBAL. Head coach Sean McVay and defensive coordinator Chris Shula are evaluating his status with no rush to get him on the field immediately.
Donald Surprised by How Fast His Body Adapted
After two seasons out of football, Donald was pleasantly surprised by his physical response. "Honestly, man, I really do feel good," he told reporters KDHNews. "Things are clicking faster than what I thought it would be." Donald acknowledged a few rusty moments in his first 11-on-11 practice reps but said the overall performance was strong. "To not play football in two years, to be moving how I'm moving... it's really no drop-off," he added.
Rams Building Extra Depth to Manage Donald's Workload
The Rams can afford to limit Donald's snaps early. The team has quality interior linemen ready to shoulder the defensive line rotation. This depth gives Los Angeles flexibility whether Donald plays Sunday or sits out WinnipegFreePress. Coach Sean McVay emphasized a patience-first approach. Defensive coordinator Chris Shula said the team is ready either way: "Everything's day by day. We're ready for him if he does, ready for him if he doesn't."
49ers Scrambling to Adjust Game Plan for Donald's Return
The San Francisco 49ers got some relief when Donald retired two years ago. Now they're back to game-planning around one of the league's all-time greats. Kyle Shanahan's offense will face a different challenge if Donald plays Newsday. Donald has 12.5 career sacks against San Francisco. The extra distance—an 18-hour flight to Melbourne—adds another complexity for both teams preparing for the international matchup.
Veteran Star Sticks to Day-by-Day Approach Ahead of Week 1
Donald signed a one-year, $20 million deal with the Rams and could earn up to $30 million with playoff incentives. At 35 years old, he's treating his return like a controlled experiment. The Rams are not forcing him into action. Whether he debuts this Sunday in Melbourne or waits for Week 2 remains a decision the team will make based on how the next few days unfold Stamford Advocate.
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